Shola Ameobi has heaped praise on the impact made by Joe Kinnear at Newcastle United.

"It is always good to have a foundation in the club, with someone in authority," Ameobi told Setanta Sports News. "That is why it is good we have been able to secure a manager in Joe.

"It is important we as players and the fans know there is something there to hold on to and fight for."

Some have suggested Kinnear is out of touch with the modern players, but striker Ameobi claims he has struck a rapport with the Newcastle squad.

"It has been a breath of fresh air for us as a team," he added. "In the last couple of weeks we have got to know him. He is a funny guy and knows what he wants.

"He expects the best from all of us, which he should do, and hopefully with the comeback we had against Everton we can move on and climb the table."